Alwyn Poole
Began teaching in 1991. TBC, HBHS, St Cuths. Founded/led Mt Hobson MS–18 years. Co-founded SAMS and MSWA. Econs degree, Masters in Edn, tchg dip, post grad dip – sport.
Some key quotes from this article: https://www.thepost.co.nz/culture/360823152/art-history-will-no-longer-be-school-subject-new-zealand
In art history students learn about the creation, history and cultural contexts of art and visual culture, from ancient periods through to contemporary times. They are taught about what ideas societies placed value on, and about New Zealand’s own artistic heritage ‒ including of Māori and Pacific art.
Its assignments test things like visual analysis, critical thinking, interpretation of art, use of language, and argument construction.
Many of New Zealand’s creative luminaries including Oscar-winning director Dame Jane Campion studied art history.
In a statement to the Post, Campion said art history was the only subject she looked forward to during sixth form (year 12), and that the subject was “a crucial step” towards her creative life in film. It was at art school that Campion started making films.
“It was so helpful to discover I had visual acuity and I was actually good at something. Do I think it’s a good idea to scrap art history? No, I think it’s a terrible, tragic idea. Students like myself deserve a chance to discover themselves [and] find something they feel passionate about and can pursue to enrich their lives.”
Art history could lead to satisfying careers in architecture, interior design, graphic design, theatre, painting, art restoration, community art, photography or cinematography, Campion said.
This article was originally published by Education – the Absolute Best Ways.
